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Rig Manager Jobs in Colorado (NOW HIRING)

Relief Operator

Milliken, CO · On-site

$28 - $29/hr

Under the direction of a Rig Manager, the Relief Operator organizes the rig crew (Floor Hands and Derrick Hands), conducts Job Safety Meetings, delegates the collection of materials and equipment ...

Relief Operator

Milliken, CO · On-site

$28 - $29/hr

Under the direction of a Rig Manager, the Relief Operator organizes the rig crew (Floor Hands and Derrick Hands), conducts Job Safety Meetings, delegates the collection of materials and equipment ...

Operator-Relief

Milliken, CO · On-site

$28 - $29/hr

Under the direction of a Rig Manager, the Relief Operator organizes the rig crew (Floor Hands and Derrick Hands), conducts Job Safety Meetings, delegates the collection of materials and equipment ...

Driller - Lower Rockies

Fruita, CO · On-site

$22.75 - $31/hr

Communicate with Rig Manager, Company Man, and Directional Driller as necessary * Responsible for well control * General upkeep and housekeeping of the Driller's cabin * General upkeep of the rig and ...

Driller - Lower Rockies

Fruita, CO · On-site

$22.75 - $31/hr

Communicate with Rig Manager, Company Man, and Directional Driller as necessary * Responsible for well control * General upkeep and housekeeping of the Driller's cabin * General upkeep of the rig and ...

Strong organizational and time management skill * Proficient computer skills including Microsoft ... Experience with swab rig or wireline operations preferred but not required Compensation The base ...

Participate in pre-tour and pre-task meetings Work under the direction of the Driller and/or Rig Manager. Perform maintenance and repairs on rig equipment as directed by the Driller.Work on the rig ...

Supervisor-Rig

Milliken, CO · On-site

$92K - $103K/yr

Supervisor - Rig SUMMARY The Rig Supervisor manages crew members, maintains productivity standards and works closely with customers ensuring that quality products and services are being safely ...

Supervisor - Rig

Milliken, CO · On-site

$92K - $103K/yr

SUMMARY The Rig Supervisor manages crew members, maintains productivity standards and works closely with customers ensuring that quality products and services are being safely provided. The Rig ...

Supervisor - Rig

Milliken, CO · On-site

$92K - $103K/yr

SUMMARY The Rig Supervisor manages crew members, maintains productivity standards and works closely with customers ensuring that quality products and services are being safely provided. The Rig ...

Wood is currently sourcing for a Rig Welder for a project in Keenesburg, CO. U.S. Only ... management companies. www.woodgroup.com Diversity Statement We are an equal opportunity employer ...

Wood is currently sourcing for a Rig Welder for a project in Keenesburg, CO. U.S. Only ... management companies. www.woodgroup.com Diversity Statement We are an equal opportunity employer ...

Floorhand

Rangely, CO · On-site

$18 - $30/hr

... the rig for operator as needed and manage crew members when relief operating - Perform other various tasks such as roustabout projects as assigned by the Rig Supervisor or Foreman Skills ...

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Rig Manager information

See Colorado salary details

$32.6K

$72.6K

$106.7K

How much do rig manager jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for rig manager in Colorado is $72,598.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $55,700.00 and $84,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the main challenges a rig manager typically faces when overseeing drilling operations?

As a Rig Manager, one of the primary challenges is balancing safety with productivity, ensuring that drilling operations meet deadlines without compromising health and safety standards. Rig Managers must also coordinate effectively with diverse teams, manage equipment maintenance, and handle unexpected issues such as equipment failures or weather disruptions. Strong leadership and problem-solving skills are essential, as Rig Managers are responsible for making critical decisions in high-pressure situations while maintaining regulatory compliance. Additionally, adapting to new technologies and industry regulations is an ongoing part of the role.

How much does a rig manager make?

A rig manager typically earns between $80,000 and $150,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the complexity of the drilling operations. They oversee drilling crews, ensure safety protocols, and manage equipment, often requiring certifications and extensive industry knowledge.

What does a rig manager do?

A rig manager oversees the daily operations of an oil or gas drilling rig, ensuring safety, efficiency, and compliance with regulations. They coordinate personnel, monitor equipment, and manage schedules, often requiring certifications in safety and operational procedures.

What is a rig manager?

Rig Managers are responsible for overseeing the daily operations and management of oil or gas drilling rigs. They supervise the crew, ensure safety protocols are followed, coordinate drilling activities, and manage equipment and supplies on site. Rig Managers play a key role in maintaining operational efficiency, compliance with regulations, and timely completion of drilling projects. Their leadership is crucial for minimizing downtime and ensuring that production targets are met safely and effectively.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a rig manager?

To thrive as a Rig Manager, you need in-depth knowledge of drilling operations, safety protocols, and team leadership, typically gained through industry experience and relevant technical qualifications. Familiarity with drilling control systems, safety management software, and certifications such as Well Control or IWCF are highly valued. Strong decision-making, communication, and problem-solving skills help manage crews and ensure operational efficiency. These competencies are vital to maintain safety, minimize downtime, and achieve project objectives in the demanding oil and gas environment.
What are the most commonly searched types of Rig jobs in Colorado? The most popular types of Rig jobs in Colorado are:
What are popular job titles related to Rig Manager jobs in Colorado? For Rig Manager jobs in Colorado, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Rig Manager jobs in Colorado look for? The top searched job categories for Rig Manager jobs in Colorado are:
What cities in Colorado are hiring for Rig Manager jobs? Cities in Colorado with the most Rig Manager job openings:
Infographic showing various Rig Manager job openings in Colorado as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 84% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $72,598 per year, or $34.9 per hour.

Rig Manager - Colorado and Utah

Patterson-UTI

Fruita, CO • On-site

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 9 days ago


Patterson-UTI rating

5.0

Company rating: 5.0 out of 10

Based on 23 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

80th of 86 rated oil and gas companies


Job description

The Rig Manager is responsible for every aspect of daily rig operations and supervises all employees working on the rig as well as drilling activities and rig equipment.  This includes compliance with Company policies, rules and regulations, ensuring that employees and onsite personnel are working safely, planning maintenance and minimizing rig down time.  The Rig Manager provides leadership, safety compliance and direction in resolving operational and personnel issues.  The Rig Manager is also responsible for planning and directing drilling operations, rig moves, as well as regular communication with Company personnel, third parties and Customer representatives.

The successful candidate will: set high standards of performance for themselves and others; be professional in written, verbal and personal actions in any situation; seek new knowledge and experiences; have an analytical mindset that can utilize factual data to develop creative and business-oriented solutions; be self- aware and adjust accordingly to different environments and audiences 

This role performs under the direction of the Drilling Superintendent.

Detailed Description:

  • Provide leadership to ensure safety of all onsite personnel with goal of working incident-free
  • Supervision, direction and training of drilling rig crew members including compliance with all safety and operational procedures
  • Management of rig operations, production, maintenance, costs and personnel to the meet the Company's business objectives
  • Understand Comprehensive Rig Inspection (CRI) criteria and strive for continual improvement by regularly inspecting and maintaining rig and equipment
  • Initiate and foster productive partnership with Customer representative
  • Understand and use basic management concepts and principles including delegation, motivation, discipline, goal setting and performance evaluation
  • Efficiently and proficiently operate and maintain rig equipment by planning preventative maintenance including necessary replacement supplies
  • Anticipate, quickly troubleshoot and resolve operational, equipment and maintenance issues to minimize rig downtime
  • Work in a heavy industrial environment which includes working around constantly moving overhead machinery, being in close proximity to loud equipment and handling potentially hazardous chemicals
  • Adhere to Company policies, guidelines and work requirements
  • Promote a diverse and inclusive work environment where employees of all backgrounds feel included and their contributions are valued
  • Promptly address and resolve concerns and disputes among team members and customers with the goal of building a stronger, more cohesive work group
  • Plan daily rig operations with Driller and Customer representative
  • Lead pre- and post-tour meetings including crew fit-for-duty evaluations
  • Fill in for Driller or other rig-based employees as needed
  • Work independently and prioritize tasks while managing distractions
  • Responsibility for Company resources, equipment, and personnel
  • Read / write emails and prepare daily rig paperwork including status reports and other business matters related to rig operations
  • General upkeep of the rig and drilling floor; includes regular sweeping, shoveling, cleaning, painting, washing of equipment and related housekeeping duties
  • Plan and supervise rig moves including rig up / down procedures
  • Other duties as assigned that may be outside of this job description

Job Requirements:

  • While performing the job, will be required to lift/carry, pull/push, reach, squat, kneel, and or climb ladders or stairs
  • Exerting 25 to 50 pounds of force frequently, and/or 10 to 20 pounds of force constantly to move objects
  • Able to repetitively climb steep stairs and be able to lift and carry 50 pounds independently while walking on uneven surfaces
  • Must be comfortable working at heights (50 ft. or greater) for extended periods of time
  • Maintain spatial orientation and awareness to safely move around work environment with many moving objects
  • Clear vision to judge near and far distances to maintain awareness of, watch, and direct ongoing work activities of employees and third parties
  • Ability to read, write and speak English to the extent needed to understand verbal and written instructions and to give clear verbal and written instructions in English to direct rig employees and third parties as well as communicate with Customer representatives
  • This job requires an irregular sleep pattern, as the Rig Manager needs to be available to observe and direct specified drilling procedures as well as resolve unanticipated rig operational, equipment or maintenance issues
  • Wear required Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) at all designated times which could include but is not limited to: hard hat, safety glasses, coveralls, work gloves, respirator, and hearing protection
  • Demonstrated ability to successfully complete duties of all rig crew positions (Floorhand, Motorhand, Derrickhand, and Driller)
  • Must possess strong computer skills (.e.g., reports, email, spreadsheets, graphs, etc.)
  • Must be able to utilize standard formulas and basic mathematical equations to compute and report various rig operation metrics
  • Must be able to verbally communicate directions and expectations effectively to the rig crew and third parties
  • Willing to travel to and work in remote locations on a rotational schedule which consists of 14 days on / 14 days off, working 12.5 hour shifts that can include days or nights and as well as weekends and holidays
  • Willing to work mandatory and unscheduled hours outside of your assigned schedule with little or no advanced notice
  • Must be willing and able to attend and successfully complete classroom training and testing to qualify for a rig assignment
  • Able to successfully meet pre-employment testing requirements which may include, without limitation, pre-employment drug and alcohol test(s) and background checks as well as drug and/or alcohol testing periodically during employment (subject to state and federal laws)

Demonstrated ability in the following leadership competencies:

  • Builds and Maintains Effective Relationship
  • Develops Self and Others
  • Builds Effective Teams
  • Courageous Leadership
  • Managing Vision and Purpose
  • Business Acumen
  • Drive for Results
  • Customer focus
  • Decision Quality

Minimum Qualifications

  • High School Diploma or GED
  • Valid state-issued driver's license and be eligible to meet requirements of Company's Vehicle Use Agreement and Driving Policy
  • Good written and verbal communication skills
  • 2+ years of prior experience as a Driller
  • 1+ years of prior experience as a Rig Manager with PTEN

Preferred Qualifications

  • Advanced education (e.g., college, trade school, etc.)

Certifications:

  • Well Control
  • CPR/First Aid
  • Hydrogen Sulfide (H2S) Safety Training
  • Must be able to complete Supervisory Well Control course within 14 days of start date

Additional Details

This position requires work both indoors and outdoors in all kinds of weather conditions, including precipitation, cold / heat, high wind, and turbulent conditions.  The Rig Manager will be regularly exposed to the typical conditions of the local area where the rig is located.  Southern states generally experience hot summers where temperatures range from 80 to low 100 with high humidity; winters have temperatures that generally do not go below 20.  Northern states generally have hot summers with similar conditions and have cold, windy winters, with low temperatures that can be as cold as -40.

Rate of pay:  Starting at $134,500

Role Classification: Salaried

This role is eligible to participate in per diem, car allowance, and cell phone allowance.

At Patterson-UTI, we are committed to providing a comprehensive benefits package to you and your family. Employees are eligible to participate in the following benefits based on timely election and any associated premium payments:  Medical, Prescription, Dental, Vision, Health Savings Account with the appropriate Medical Plan, Life Insurance, AD&D and Disability, Hospital Indemnity, Accident Insurance,  401(k) Retirement Savings and Employee Assistance Program.  In addition, this role may be eligible for Paid Time Off as per Company policy

The wage and benefits information provided herein are accurate as of the date of posting.  All terms and conditions of employment are subject to change at any time, without notice, subject to applicable law.


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